"Today marks an important milestone in the development of human rights globally," said the FRA Director, Morten Kjaerum, on International Human Rights Day on 10 December which this year promotes the idea every day is Human Rights Day. “But it is often at the local level – in schools, hospitals and public services - where rights are most exercised. That’s why local initiatives like Vienna’s declaration to become a human rights city are important turning points in the drive to bring rights closer to everyone, everywhere and every day.”

The alarming reality of what it is like being transgender in the EU today is revealed in a new report by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA). Violence and discrimination are common. Many hide their identity, are marginalised, and live in isolation or even fear.

On 3 December, FRA presented its two new reports on the fundamental rights situation at the EU’s airport and land borders to a session of the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE).

On 1 December, the FRA Director, Morten Kjaerum, exchanged views with the members of the Employment and Social Affairs Committee (EMPL) of the European Parliament. The discussions revolved around the projects and activities of FRA, and sought to contribute to the fundamental rights dimension of the work carried out by the EMPL Committee.